Being terrified when overwhelmed produces paralysis in us, which steals the potential for a positive outcome.
God desires a brave spirit in His children. When we are engulfed by fear, we are a living contradiction between what we have been given and how we live. We are not living by faith.
Living as we have been created through the new birth, we are powerful and loving and have a sound mind, which involves good mental and emotional health. When overwhelmed, we overcome by living a life of trust, faith, and prayer—not by being anxious.
Feeling overwhelmed usually brings with it a feeling that what is bothering us is impossible to work out. This feeling is overcome when we become convinced that our heavenly Father is watching out for us and has our situation under control. We take comfort in understanding that, with God, all things are possible.
Another source of feeling overcome is when it seems impossible for us to have enough strength, finances, or wisdom. Our Father tells us His divine power has given us everything we need. Our Shepherd will provide, guide, and protect us if we will follow Him.
Science has found that how we interpret pain affects the intensity of the experience. Believing the promises of God changes the overwhelming experience from devastating to beneficial.
We can stop struggling and start trusting our Shepherd. He loves us and has a plan in everything He permits our way. He will work all things for our good. We are not alone. He has promised never to leave or forsake us.
Keep looking up and pressing on in the power of the Spirit and the love of Jesus.
(Photo courtesy of pixabay.)
(For more devotions, visit Christian Devotions.)
The Rev. Dr. Bob Segress served as a licensed psychological clinician for twenty-five years. Upon retiring, he served for fifteen years as a prison minister. Retiring again, he began writing full-time after a period of boredom. He has written: The Biblical Approach To Psychology while serving as a college educator, The Shelton Series, and, in 2012, Ten Years Inside Shelton Prison. Currently, he writes for several publications such as Halo Magazine.